Episodios

  • The Voice She Became: Shakila Ahmad’s Journey as a Muslim Woman in America

    The Voice She Became: Shakila Ahmad’s Journey as a Muslim Woman in America
    Aug 15 2025
    In this episode of Roots, Routes, and Voices, Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright engage with Shakila Ahmad to explore the journey that has defined her as a Muslim woman in America. Moving to Cincinnati from Pakistan at nine years old, Shakila faced the challenge of being the only brown Muslim girl in her class. Her experiences during these formative years fostered a sense of resilience and belonging, ultimately leading her to become the first woman to chair the board of a mosque in the United States.

    Shakila reflects on adapting to a new country, overcoming language and cultural barriers, and building meaningful friendships across different faiths and backgrounds. She highlights the critical moments that encouraged her to embrace leadership roles instead of retreating during tough times. Her commitment to servant leadership and her efforts to build trust within interfaith, civic, and professional communities are central to her story. Through her initiative, Empowering Spaces, Shakila combines decades of experience to help organizations cultivate more welcoming and engaged communities. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the significance of authentic voices and the bravery required to make oneself heard.

    Join us for a thoughtful discussion about the roots that ground us, the paths we navigate, and the voices that contribute to shaping America's future.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:40 - Navigating Identity and Adaptation
    09:23 - Discovering Community in America
    14:46 - Classroom of Shared Core Values
    20:58 - Grassroots Spirituality and Community Building
    21:49 - Cincinnati's Foundation: Welcoming Islamic Community
    29:20 - Cultural Fusion and Faithful Gathering
    34:03 - Building Community Through Relationship Education
    38:38 - Finding Your Voice Amid Threats
    44:32 - "Mentorship and Immersion Impact"
    50:50 - Grounded by Faith, Family, Community
    59:46 - Launching Consulting Career
    01:05:27 - "Hope Through Inspirational People"
    01:06:09 - Podcast Credits and Acknowledgments
    01:06:48 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Being vulnerable is being brave. If I hadn't spoken up, others would define me. I chose to step forward because being truly seen is the first step to belonging."- Shakila Ahmad

    "We all seek community and understanding. By truly listening to each other's stories, we discover our shared humanity."- Clara Matonhodze

    "At the heart of migration and leadership lies trust and community. Through vulnerability and learning, we foster lasting belonging and change."- Bryan Wright

    Key Takeaways

    Roots and Routes
    The Power of Belonging and Authentic Friendship
    Discovery of Universal Values
    Hybrid Identity
    Building Inclusive Community
    Stepping Forward in Times of Crisis
    Trailblazing Leadership
    Faith, Family, and Community as Anchors
    Emotional Labor and the Importance of Self-Care
    Empowering Spaces
    Hope in Community

    Connect with Shakila Ahmad:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shakila-ahmad-57a286179/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlaboldery/
    Website: https://empowering-spaces.com/

    Call To Action:

    Visit Home - Cincinnati Compass to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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    1 h y 8 m
  • The Cost of Freedom: Bao M. Nguyen’s Story from Saigon to Cincinnati

    The Cost of Freedom: Bao M. Nguyen’s Story from Saigon to Cincinnati
    Aug 11 2025
    In this episode of Roots, Routes, Voices, Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright engage with Bao M. Nguyen to explore his transformation from the vibrant streets of Saigon to the serene neighborhoods of Cincinnati. Bao shares his enduring memories of life in Vietnam, the upheaval of immigrating to the United States, and his quest for a sense of belonging in the Midwest. His story highlights his family's resilience amid war and separation, his rise and subsequent departure from Procter & Gamble, and how redefining success inspired him to foster community through initiatives like Cincinnati’s Asian Food Fest and Asianati. Through Bao’s experiences, the episode examines the true cost of freedom, the challenges of establishing a new home, and the intricate layers of identity formed between cultures.

    Driven by his grandparents’ tales of snow, Bao moved to Dayton, Ohio from Vietnam at fifteen. After graduating from Miamisburg High School, he earned a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati. Bao began his career at Procter & Gamble as an automation engineer and advanced to become the North America Sales Manager for Swiffer. Despite his success, he felt compelled to pursue a path that aligned more closely with his values and experiences.

    Bao emphasizes that his achievements are a product of his family and community support rather than being self-made. Recognizing the numerous individuals who aided his journey, he chose a career in financial services to help guide multi-generational and under-served families through their own challenges. Bao is committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, building on the foundation laid by those who supported him.

    Chapters:

    00:00 – Introduction
    00:40 – Adjusting to Isolation in California
    08:29 – Family Reunification Journey
    15:52 – "Many Moms Shaped My Childhood"
    17:01 – Self-Made or Community-Built?
    26:07 – Conflicting Leadership Realizations
    31:04 – "Empowerment Through Financial Impact"
    34:29 – Financial Guidance: A Reluctant Mentor
    39:26 – "Asian Food Fest Celebrates Community"
    43:45 – "Family Mealtime: A Sharing Negotiation"
    52:01 – "Global Belonging Among Asian Identities"
    55:40 – Evolving Through Struggles
    01:02:05 – Cultivating Legacy and Self-Worth
    01:04:41 – Podcast Credits and Acknowledgments
    01:05:20 – Outro

    Quotes:

    "Sometimes the ladder leans on the wrong tree. Find your roots and create a sense of belonging for others."- Bao M. Nguyen

    "We never truly arrive; we're always evolving. Building a community is as powerful as finding a home."- Clara Matonhodze

    "Every journey shapes our landscape. By sharing our roots and supporting each other, our community grows stronger."- Bryan Wright

    Key Takeaways

    The Sound and Soul of Home
    From Displacement to Reunion
    Redefining Success and “Making It” in America
    The Power of Pivot: Owning Your Path
    Building Bridges and Community Roots
    The Ever-Evolving Meaning of Belonging
    Legacy, Responsibility, and Planting Seeds
    Inspiration for the Next Chapter

    Connect with Bao M. Nguyen:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bao-m-nguyen/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bao_down4what/
    Website: https://www.asianati.com/

    Call To Action:

    Visit Home - Cincinnati Compass to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 11 m
  • Bridging Continents, Building Community: Fatou Souare and the Power of Cultural Advocacy

    Bridging Continents, Building Community: Fatou Souare and the Power of Cultural Advocacy
    Aug 1 2025
    Welcome to "Roots, Routes, Voices," the Cincinnati Compass podcast showcasing stories that shape America's diverse community. In this episode, host Clara Matonhodze and cohost Bryan Wright interview Fatou Souare, an HR professional, cultural advocate, and co-founder of the Kentucky African Women's Association (KAWA).

    Originally from Senegal, Fatou shares her journey of moving to the United States, navigating cultural shifts, and overcoming the challenges of starting anew. She discusses her transition from Senegal to Louisiana and eventually to Kentucky, highlighting her experience as a single mother balancing personal ambitions with family responsibilities.

    Through KAWA, Fatou has become a key figure in Northern Kentucky’s African immigrant community, providing essential resources, mentorship, and celebrating cultural identity. Her role as the Senior Specialist of Talent Acquisition at Cincinnati Children’s complements her work with KAWA, allowing her to advocate for diversity and help individuals find meaningful employment.

    This conversation delves into the importance of community building, preserving cultural roots, and leading with both compassion and strategy. Fatou’s dedication to supporting other immigrants offers valuable insights into resilience and the immigrant experience. Whether you're interested in leadership, cultural advocacy, or community development, this episode provides a meaningful look at Fatou’s efforts to make a positive impact.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:11 - Reality Beyond School: A Life Education
    08:15 - Journey Through Education and Relocation
    12:33 - "Respect and Helping Others"
    18:14 - Protective Aunt at School
    21:21 - Open-Minded Family Defies Cultural Norms
    31:01 - Kawa Initiative: Cultural and Resource Support
    32:36 - Community Health and Resource Collaboration
    38:57 - Irene's Effective Leadership Skills
    45:01 - Balancing Cultural Integration and Authenticity
    49:05 - Understanding Immigrant Integration Challenges
    53:46 - Amplifying Immigrant Voices Publicly
    01:01:03 - Exploring American Identity Transition
    01:03:20 - Podcast Acknowledgments & Credits
    01:04:00 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "By helping one, we light the way for many to find hope and belonging."- Fatou Souare

    "Our traditions anchor us, enabling us to thrive and create beauty together."- Clara Matonhodze

    "Every voice shapes our cities. Communities grow through shared stories and built bridges."- Bryan Wright

    Key Takeaways:

    Embracing Dual Roots
    Leap of Faith and New Beginnings
    The Power of Women’s Leadership
    Community as a Lifeline
    Bridging Cultures and Building Understanding
    Navigating Challenges with Heart
    Dreaming Bigger, Together
    Passing the Torch

    Connect with Fatou Souare
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentucky-african-women-association-453641311
    Website:https://kawaus.org/about/

    Call To Action:
    Visit https://www.cincinnaticompass.org/ to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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    1 h y 4 m
  • From Two Continents To One Heart: Daniela Patterson’s Love Story

    From Two Continents To One Heart: Daniela Patterson’s Love Story
    Jul 29 2025
    For over thirty years, Daniela Patterson has spearheaded marketing, branding, and communication strategies that build, expand, and rejuvenate global brands for startups, midsize firms, and Fortune 500 companies. With extensive experience both in-house and within agencies, Patterson has managed and led projects across North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, bridging developed and emerging markets.

    Welcome to Roots, Routes, and Voices: Voices That Shape America, a Cincinnati Compass podcast that explores the journeys of immigrants shaping the United States. In this episode, we talk with Daniela Patterson, Chief Marketing Director at Eighty Four Fifty One, who shares her remarkable love story that led her from Switzerland to America.

    Hosts Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright recount how Daniela’s romance began during a boat ride in Virginia Beach and flourished across continents and cultures. Daniela discusses the transition from her established career and life in Switzerland to embracing a new existence in the U.S., highlighting the unexpected challenges of adapting to American customs, such as understanding local bread varieties and Southern lifestyles. She emphasizes the crucial role of communication in maintaining a relationship that overcomes significant distance and cultural differences.

    Daniela’s experience of sustaining a long-distance relationship through costly international calls and adjusting to the cultural nuances of daily American life offers both personal insight and universal inspiration. This episode highlights how love can transcend borders and the determination required to establish new roots in a foreign land.

    Join us for an engaging discussion on building connections, forming a family, and creating a sense of home no matter where life takes you.

    Chapters:

    00:00 – Introduction
    00:11 – "Memorable Return to Virginia Beach"
    04:57 – Unexpected Date Request
    07:16 – "Reunion and Introduction"
    12:52 – Cultural Adjustments: Bread Challenges
    15:02 – "Accented Icebreaker in Marketing"
    17:18 – Choosing Atlanta for Direct Flights
    21:22 – Interracial Marriage Challenges
    25:45 – Brief Baseball Experience Ends Quickly
    28:20 – Inspirational Stories of Strength
    29:59 – Outro

    Quotes:

    “Our relationship thrived on open communication and unwavering faith, even in the unfamiliar.”- Daniela Patterson

    “Love across borders is truly unparalleled.”- Clara Matonhodze

    “Daniela’s journey shows that courage and love can lead to beautiful new beginnings.”- Bryan Wright

    Key Takeaways:

    Love Knows No Borders
    Roots and Routes Intertwined
    Communication is Everything
    Navigating Cultural Expectations
    Embracing Change and Finding Community
    Staying Connected to Your Roots
    Resilience and Positivity

    Connect with Daniela Patterson:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-patterson/

    Call To Action:
    Visit https://www.cincinnaticompass.org to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
    Más Menos
    28 m
  • From Mexico City to Midwest Powerhouse: Karla Boldery’s American Rebuild

    From Mexico City to Midwest Powerhouse: Karla Boldery’s American Rebuild
    Jul 18 2025
    In this episode of Roots, Routes, and Voices That Shape America, hosts Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright engage with Karla Boldery—a business advisor, media leader, and founder of the Latino Entrepreneur Academy in Cincinnati. Karla details her journey from the vibrant streets of Mexico City, where she cultivated independence and resilience, to becoming a pivotal figure empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs in Ohio. Transitioning from a childhood dream of becoming a nun, Karla navigated unexpected challenges that led her to redefine service, create her own opportunities, and establish a presence in environments where her community was underrepresented. The conversation explores Karla’s experiences with survival, identity, and leadership, as well as her impactful efforts to give back to her community. This discussion illustrates how immigrants like Karla are not only pursuing the American dream but actively transforming it through their dedication and leadership.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:12 - "Growing Up in Mexico City"
    05:16 - Early Entrepreneurial Aspirations
    07:16 - Growing Up Catholic
    12:53 - Pivot from Art to Business
    15:14 - "Pursuing a New Life Chapter"
    17:58 - "Immigration Hurdle Before U.S. Wedding"
    21:17 - Journey of Self-Preservation
    24:57 - "Inspired or Reactive Entrepreneurship?"
    28:40 - Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places
    33:24 - "Balancing Cultural Identity and Success"
    36:59 - "Earned Authenticity in Career Growth"
    39:19 - Importance of Academic Credentials
    40:57 - Navigating Cultural Identity Publicly
    44:23 - "Embrace Learning and Engagement"
    48:27 - "Hispanic Star: Claudia Romo Edelman's Initiative"
    51:10 - Podcast Credits and Acknowledgments
    51:30 - Outro

    Quotes:

    “Finding your place can mean building your own table. Courageously stepping into the unknown transforms both you and your community.”- Clara Matonhodze

    “Embracing challenges shapes your future and others’. Sometimes, preparation is simply saying yes and giving your all.”- Bryan Wright

    “Survival becomes purpose through community. By owning my story, I inspire others to embrace their own power.”- Karla Boldery

    Key Takeaways:

    Redefining Leadership
    From Survival to Service
    Building for Others
    Cultural Roots as Strength
    Representation Matters
    The Power of Community
    “Be Yourself”—With Courage and Intention
    Owning Your Voice

    Connect with Karla Boldery

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlaboldery/
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/karlaboldery/

    Call To Action: Visit https://www.cincinnaticompass.org/ to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
    Más Menos
    52 m
  • Model, Diplomat, CEO: Sarah Tsai’s Unbelievable Journey To America

    Model, Diplomat, CEO: Sarah Tsai’s Unbelievable Journey To America
    Jul 11 2025
    Join Clara Matonhodze Strode and Bryan Wright on "Roots, Routes & Voices that Shape America" as they converse with Sarah Tsai—model, diplomat, CEO, and founder of Sarah Tsai Consulting. Sarah shares her journey from Taiwan to Cincinnati, highlighting her multicultural upbringing and early aspirations in diplomacy. She discusses the challenges of changing careers as an immigrant and her successful integration into Cincinnati’s business and start-up scene. Through honest reflections on her family's influence and her diverse experiences in academia and global industries, Sarah illustrates her resilience and sense of identity. From pet sitting after earning a master’s degree to navigating boardrooms and personal relationships, this episode delves into the immigrant experience in America, demonstrating how each unique path contributes to the community we call home.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    01:37 - "Sarah Tsai: Global Impact Leader"
    05:49 - Taiwan Political Analyst Experience
    11:41 - Rethinking College's Financial Impact
    18:26 - Village Life: Free & Happy
    23:52 - Pet Sitting and Life Journeys
    30:59 - Corporate Innovation & Networking Experiences
    33:48 - Navigating Gender Dynamics and Parenthood
    41:51 - Dating Cultural Differences Explored
    47:30 - Balancing Parental Expectations
    50:38 - Future Skills & Entrepreneur Insights
    53:34 - Solopreneur Financial Pressures
    01:00:42 - Startup Exit Strategies Explained
    01:08:13 - "Cincinnati's Unique Food Traditions"
    01:12:58 - "Embracing Growth and Community"
    01:15:13 - Podcast Acknowledgments and Credits
    01:15:39 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Discover your strengths, cultivate empathy, and remember: our children's future careers are yet to be imagined. Live authentically, not by others' expectations."- Sarah Tsai

    "Roots are more than our origins—they're the stories and journeys that shape our voices and our community."- Clara Matonhodze Strode

    "Every story and voice can ignite change. By listening deeply, we create an inclusive future for all."- Bryan Wright

    Key Takeaways:

    Redefining Ambition Across Continents
    The Courage to Pivot
    Breaking Barriers, Defying Stereotypes
    Building Community, Honoring Heritage
    The Immigrant Hustle, Unseen and Universal
    From Innovation to Authenticity
    Raising the Next Generation
    Finding Your Voice in the Midwest and Beyond

    Call To Action: Visit https://www.cincinnaticompass.org/ to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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    1 h y 16 m
  • Breaking Barriers: Dr. Kotagal Shashi Kant On Medicine, Immigration, And The American Dream

    Breaking Barriers: Dr. Kotagal Shashi Kant On Medicine, Immigration, And The American Dream
    Jul 4 2025
    Welcome to Roots, Routes & Voices that Shape America, a Cincinnati Compass podcast that highlights the journeys of immigrants contributing to our nation's growth. In today’s episode, “Breaking Barriers: Dr. Kotagal Shashi Kant on Medicine, Immigration, and the American Dream,” hosts Clara Matonhodze Strode and Bryan Wright speak with Dr. Kotagal Shashi Kant.

    Dr. Kant’s path takes him from a small town in India to the esteemed All India Institute of Medical Sciences, and ultimately to a distinguished career in nephrology in the United States. He shares his experience of pursuing the American dream as an immigrant, discussing cultural adjustments, overcoming discrimination, and embracing values like humility, gratitude, and service. His story highlights the importance of investing in a new community and how acts of giving—whether through knowledge, care, or kindness—forge meaningful connections.

    Join us as Dr. Kant recounts the challenges he faced and the milestones he achieved in medicine and mentorship. He offers valuable advice for new immigrants striving to find their place and thrive in America. This conversation delves into themes of identity, purpose, and the true meaning of home.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:12 - Regrets from Unused Potential
    05:58 - Choices: Influence and Circumstances
    07:40 - "India's Dollar Restriction Challenge"
    12:10 - "Immigrant Transition and Materialism"
    15:31 - Mistaken Identity at Conference
    17:26 - Challenging Perceptions and Seeking Knowledge
    22:25 - Inexpensive, Elite Indian Medical School
    23:47 - "Brain Drain: An Opportunity"
    29:31 - "Empathy in Clinical Care"
    32:43 - Discovering Penicillin: A Curiosity Breakthrough
    35:07 - Antarctica: Wildlife Adventure Experience
    36:43 - The Privilege of Giving
    42:26 - Immigration and American Identity Debate
    44:36 - "Migration Driven by Climate Change"
    46:39 - Embracing Cultural Engagement
    50:35 - "Advice for Immigrants Facing Bias"
    53:45 - "Advice for New Immigrants"
    57:10 - Gratitude for Inspiring Conversation
    57:54 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Invest in your community and embrace it as your home."- Dr. Kotagal Shashi Kant

    "Contentment fosters peace, pride, and endless possibilities."- Clara Matonhodze Strode

    "Together, we build our home. Every voice shapes our future."- Bryan Wright

    Key Takeaways:

    Gratitude Over Entitlement
    Roots and Routes Shape Us
    Medicine as Service, Not Just Success
    The Strength and Strategy of Immigrants
    Giving Back and Building Community
    Challenging Stereotypes and Embracing Diversity
    Lifelong Learning and Curiosity
    Legacy of Service and Empathy
    Claim Your Place, Stand Tall

    Connect with Dr. Kotagal Shashi Kant
    Website: https://med.uc.edu/depart/intmed/divisions/nephrology/fellowship-programs/nephrology-fellowship/fellow-directory/index/pubs/kants

    Call To Action:Visit https://www.cincinnaticompass.org/ to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
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    58 m
  • From Ghana To True Shea: Manny Addo On Building A Business With Soul

    From Ghana To True Shea: Manny Addo On Building A Business With Soul
    Jun 27 2025
    In this episode of Roots, Routes, and Voices, hosts Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright speak with Manny Addo, the founder of True Shea. Manny brings West Africa's prized beauty secret—100% pure shea butter—to American homes through his Cincinnati-based company.

    Raised in Ghana, Manny shares his journey from aspiring medical doctor to entrepreneur after the loss of his mother at fifteen. He details his early ventures selling shoes and teaching in a remote village, highlighting the essential role of shea butter in both skincare and sustenance.

    Upon moving to the United States with just $600, Manny pursued higher education in Cincinnati. With the help of supportive mentors and his own resilience, he transitioned from a career in finance to launching True Shea.

    Manny discusses the challenges of bridging cultures, building a business as an immigrant, and his dedication to giving back by funding water wells in Ghana. His story offers valuable insights for those navigating entrepreneurship and seeking to make a meaningful impact.

    Manny Addo is the CEO of True Shea, a black-owned natural beauty care company committed to empowering Ghanaian women. True Shea products are available nationwide at Kroger, Target, Amazon, and Jungle Jim’s International Market.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    01:26 - Origins of My Entrepreneurship Journey
    08:47 - Shea Butter: Versatile and Edible
    15:36 - Inspired to Impact: Shea Butter Journey
    17:00 - Immigrant Journey and Giving Back
    25:50 - "Untaught Business Essentials: Building Trust"
    32:15 - Balancing Authenticity and Market Expansion
    38:06 - Exploring Stereotypes in African Entrepreneurship
    40:33 - Journey to Cincinnati
    47:55 - Adjusting Speech for Clarity
    52:43 - Product Sales Support Clean Water
    59:53 - Motivational Speech to African Professionals
    01:01:26 - "Join Our Podcast Community"
    01:02:16 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Inspiring change starts within us. When we give back, we transform communities."- Clara Matonhodze

    "Success is collective. The immigrant journey is about uplifting others as we rise together."- Bryan Wright

    "From a remote village to America's biggest stores, anything is possible with perseverance."- Manny Addo

    Key Takeaways:

    From Humble Beginnings in Ghana to Entrepreneurial Success in America
    The Power of Cultural Bridges: Shea Butter as a Connector
    Building a Business, Building Community
    Navigating New Norms and Cultural Integration
    Making Success About More Than Just Yourself
    Perseverance—The Underrated Ingredient
    Authenticity as an Advantage
    Inspiring the Next Wave

    Connect with Manny Addo:
    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/manny-addo-54b5767
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/true.shea.butter/#
    Website: https://www.naturalsheacare.com/about-us/

    Call To Action:
    Visit http://www.cincinnaticompass.org to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.
    Más Menos
    1 h y 2 m